Toyota IQ

Toyota used the IQ concept as a way of exploring a new package for a city car.

As a prelude to jumping into the urban-car market, Toyota showed the IQ concept, its take on a future competitor to the smart. The IQ has similar proportions to the smart — a short wheelbase, virtually no front or rear overhands and a tall profile relative to its stubby overall length of less than 118 in.

Although the silhouette is similar to the smart's, the surface detailing is much edgier, with sharp angles, bold character lines and repeating triangular shapes that seem to be inspired by the look of the Stealth bomber.

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Unlike the smart, which only seats two, the IQ offers unique 3-plus-1 seating. Because the dash sweeps away from the passenger seat, that bucket seat can be moved farther forward to accommodate a third adult and a child in the rear. Another slick feature is the clear plastic panel on top of the dash that provides for a projected heads-up display of navigation information when that system is activated.

Toyota was mum about powertrain configurations and instead used the IQ concept as a way of exploring a new package for a city car. More details will likely be revealed at the upcoming Tokyo Motor Show.